Road tripping from Bel Air to the Big Apple - know the drive times!

Are you planning a road trip from Bel Air to New York? It’s a road trip that many people take due to its close proximity between the two cities. However, as with many road trips, timing is everything. Here’s what you need to know about the time it takes to drive from Bel Air to New York, depending on the route you take and the traffic conditions.

Fastest and slowest routes

There are a few different ways to get from Bel Air to New York. One of the fastest is to take I-95 North all the way to the George Washington Bridge, and then cross the bridge into New York City. This route is approximately 190 miles and takes around 3 hours, assuming normal traffic conditions.

If, however, you’d like to take a more scenic route, you can drive north on Route 1 and follow it until it merges with I-95 North. This route takes a bit longer, at around 3.5 hours, due to slower speed limits and curvier roads.

Driving time calculations

Now, let’s take a look at the estimated driving times based on traffic patterns, which can greatly impact the duration of your journey.

Low traffic

During low-traffic hours, you can expect to reach New York City in around 2 hours and 45 minutes by taking I-95 North. With good driving conditions, the speed limit is generally 65-70 mph, and there are no major issues to slow you down, allowing you to arrive in the city in record time.

Peak traffic

On the flip side, peak traffic times on the I-95 North route can add an additional hour to your travel time. Heavy congestion around the Washington D.C. area, Baltimore, and New York City is not uncommon. To avoid traffic on this route, try leaving early in the morning or later in the evening after rush hour.

Final thoughts

Driving from Bel Air to New York City might not be the most convenient method of transportation, but it can be a fun, relaxing experience if you plan accordingly. By understanding the best routes to take, the approximate driving times, and how traffic can impact your journey, you’ll be able to plan the perfect road trip with ease. Be sure to also plan for rest breaks and take extra precautions to stay safe on the road!